Passive Solar in the United States: 1976-1986

A decade of experience in passive solar development in the United States is reviewed. More than 200,000 residential and 15,000 institutional and commercial passive solar buildings have been constructed since 1976. The evolution of the program through its peak in 1980 to the present is described. Methods of performance prediction and evaluation are discussed including analysis methods, designtools, test modules and monitored buildings. Results of the monitoring show excellent performance, generally in agreement with the analysis, for both residences and larger buildings. Passive practice is analyzed and problems are discussed. The current research program is described. Potential savings are estimated.